At the amnesty centre in Dubai's Al Aweer. GDRFA

Thousands of overstayers in the UAE are seizing the chance to regularize their status and secure employment through the ongoing amnesty program, with over 16 recruitment companies now on site at Dubai’s Al Aweer Centre offering opportunities to those seeking a fresh start. The initiative, which began on September 1 and runs until October 30, has seen a significant increase in activity at Dubai’s Al Aweer Centre, where recruiters are actively seeking candidates to fill a wide range of job vacancies. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, has confirmed that the number of recruitment companies present at the Al Aweer Centre has grown to 16. This influx of recruiters reflects the program's dual aim: to help overstayers regularize their status while providing them with opportunities for a second chance at employment. "We've noticed that most people come to the UAE to look for a job and end up overstaying with the hope of finding employment," said Al Marri. "Being able to find employers at the Al Aweer Centre gives them a second chance, which is a crucial step in ensuring they can remain in the country legally and contribute to the economy." The amnesty program has already had a tangible impact, with around 1,000 individuals taking advantage of the initiative to have their fines waived and secure exit passes. However, the second day of the program saw a sharp increase in participation, a development attributed to the growing presence of companies at the centre offering immediate job opportunities. Private companies have been invited to set up booths at the Al Aweer Centre, where they can conduct on-the-spot interviews and hire candidates directly. This proactive approach has not only streamlined the process for amnesty seekers but also ensured that those eligible for employment can transition smoothly into new roles without leaving the country. Major companies such as Transguard Group, Azizi Group, Al Ghurair, and Hotpack are among the key players participating in the initiative. These companies are offering thousands of job openings, ranging from skilled positions in construction to unskilled roles in facility management and manufacturing. Shahid Mahmmud, Senior Manager in Recruitment Services for Transguard Group, revealed that the company is offering nearly 15,000 jobs, many of which are available to those applying at the amnesty centre. These positions span various sectors, including construction and facility management, providing a broad spectrum of opportunities for applicants. Similarly, Mujeeb Rahman, Deputy General Manager at Hotpack, noted that his company is actively recruiting both skilled and unskilled workers through on-the-spot interviews conducted at the Al Aweer Centre. Successful candidates are being issued new work permits immediately, allowing them to start their new jobs without delay. Azizi Group, another major participant in the program, is offering more than 5,000 jobs, particularly in the construction sector. Project Manager Adham Hilal emphasized that the positions are open to qualified professionals, including carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, underscoring the demand for skilled labor in Dubai’s booming construction industry. The amnesty program's success is evident in the immediate response it received, with over 100 individuals submitting applications within the first half-hour of the initiative's launch. This overwhelming participation highlights the urgent need for such programs, which provide a pathway for overstayers to rebuild their lives in the UAE legally. Lieutenant General Al Marri reiterated the program's significance, noting that it not only supports social stability but also offers a chance for individuals to make a fresh start. "Our goal is to ensure that the process is smooth and that individuals can legally continue their lives in the UAE," he said. As the amnesty program continues, the collaboration between government authorities and private companies is expected to benefit thousands of overstayers, helping them secure employment and contribute to the UAE’s economy. The initiative stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to providing opportunities for all residents, regardless of their circumstances. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: All you need to know about UAE amnesty
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